Exterior grounds maintenance including planting, irrigation, mowing, and seasonal care - typically included in the CAM cost pool as a controllable expense. Landscaping costs are capped in most leases with controllable CAM caps.
Landscaping costs can escalate rapidly when a landlord upgrades the property's landscaping standard mid-lease or replaces existing plantings with more expensive materials. Capital landscaping improvements (new hardscape, major replanting) should be distinguished from routine maintenance.
A landlord upgraded the property's landscaping from standard maintenance to an elaborate drought-resistant garden. Annual landscaping costs tripled from $80,000 to $240,000. The landlord argued this was ongoing 'maintenance' - not a capital improvement - and billed the full cost through CAM without applying any cap.
Large year-over-year landscaping cost increases warrant scrutiny. Request invoices and ask whether any "landscaping" line items represent new installations, hardscape additions, or irrigation system upgrades vs. routine maintenance.
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Find My OverchargesThis page provides general educational information. It is not legal advice and may not reflect the most current law in your state. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.
